All articles tagged with #tick prevention
An Illinois resident has become seriously ill from the Powassan virus, a tick-borne disease not previously reported in the state, prompting increased surveillance and public health warnings about tick bite prevention.
Doctors in the US are seeing a rise in tick bites and related ER visits, driven by environmental changes and increased awareness, highlighting the importance of prevention and quick removal to reduce disease risk, especially Lyme disease.
Public health officials are investigating a potential case of Powassan virus on Martha's Vineyard, a rare but serious tick-borne disease with no specific treatment, which has seen a slight increase in cases nationally and in Massachusetts. Preventative measures include treating clothing with permethrin, wearing tick-smart clothing, and performing thorough tick checks.
A rare case of Powassan virus has been diagnosed in a one-month-old infant on Martha's Vineyard, making her the youngest known patient to contract the virus. The virus was transmitted through a tick bite, leading to severe health issues including brain damage and seizures. The family is urging caution and tick prevention, as there is no cure or vaccine for Powassan, which can be transmitted within 15 minutes of a tick bite. The community has rallied to support the family financially and emotionally.
The article discusses the risks associated with ticks, especially Lyme disease, emphasizing that while tick populations are increasing and they can carry serious illnesses, the actual risk varies by location and proper precautions can significantly reduce the danger. It highlights the importance of identifying ticks, understanding their behavior, and taking preventive measures based on regional risk levels.
Texas is experiencing a surge in tick activity due to favorable weather conditions, leading to increased Lyme disease cases. The disease, transmitted by deer ticks, can cause serious health issues if untreated, but is preventable through measures like wearing protective clothing and checking for ticks after outdoor activities. Awareness and prompt treatment are key to managing the risk.
A rare tick-borne virus called Powassan has caused one death and hospitalized two in Wisconsin this year, with cases increasing nationwide. The virus is transmitted by black-legged ticks, which also carry Lyme disease, and symptoms can range from none to severe brain inflammation. Health officials emphasize the importance of protecting against tick bites, especially during peak activity months from April to September.
Ticks are active year-round and can transmit diseases like Lyme disease, so it's important to check for and remove ticks promptly after outdoor activities, wear protective clothing, use repellents, and check pets for ticks to reduce risk of infection.
Lyme disease in dogs, caused by tick bites, often shows no symptoms but can lead to fever, lameness, joint inflammation, and rare kidney issues. Prevention through tick control products and regular checks is essential, especially in high-risk areas, to protect both pets and humans from this serious illness.
Missouri is experiencing an increase in the aggressive Lone Star tick, which can cause Alpha-Gal Syndrome, a food allergy to red meat and dairy. The CDC reports over 110,000 cases in the U.S. from 2010 to 2022, though the actual number is unknown. Prevention includes using DEET repellent, wearing long clothing, and performing thorough tick checks after outdoor activities.
New research reveals New York, Pennsylvania, and Texas as the worst states for tick-borne illnesses, with New York reporting nearly 16,800 Lyme disease cases in 2022. Experts emphasize the importance of tick prevention and immediate removal if bitten, as ticks can transmit multiple diseases, including Lyme disease and the Powassan virus. Regular checks, especially in areas like the backyard, and preventive measures for pets are recommended to reduce the risk of tick bites.
While there are several Lyme prevention options for dogs, including vaccines and medications, similar options for humans have been hindered by safety concerns and doubts about public acceptance. However, researchers are currently testing new and old options for Lyme prevention in human clinical trials. In the past, a human vaccine for Lyme disease called Lymerix was available in the United States, but it was pulled from the market due to reports of side effects, despite federal health officials not finding evidence that the vaccine was unsafe.
Tarsus Pharmaceuticals is developing a pill for humans that could provide protection against Lyme disease for several weeks at a time by killing ticks on people within 24 hours of ingestion, with effects lasting up to 30 days. With Lyme disease being a growing problem in the United States, the experimental pill, a formulation of lotilaner, aims to offer a more effective prevention method than current options such as insect repellents and permethrin-treated clothing. This development comes as a promising new weapon in the fight against tick-borne diseases, addressing the need for better prevention strategies and potential health issues associated with Lyme disease.
Landscaping with yellow pampas grass, a type of xeriscaping, can help deter ticks from infiltrating your yard. Ticks prefer moist environments, so planting drier plants that require less watering creates an unappealing habitat for these pests. Additionally, incorporating rock gardens, wood chips, and barrier pathways can further discourage ticks from settling in your yard. However, be aware of local regulations and the flammability of pampas grass before planting.
As tick season arrives, entomologist Larry Dapsis advises wearing long sleeves and pants, preferably light-colored clothing, to make ticks more visible. After spending time outdoors, check your body and clothes for ticks, and put suspected tick-carrying clothing in the dryer for 20 minutes to kill them. Bug sprays with DEET and treating clothing with permethrin are effective in preventing tick bites. If you find a tick, remove it with tweezers and consider testing it for potential pathogens using the TickReport service. For more information, visit the Cape Cod Cooperative Extension's website.